Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing device and methods of use thereof

Abstract

An apparatus, methods, and a device for delivering a rhythmic light pattern to a surface including a housing, a laser source for delivering light in a controlled direction and rhythm, a port to communicate with a controller, and a base to support the housing. Some embodiments include a speaker. The speaker and laser source may have coordinated direction and rhythm. The speaker may play human speech, music, percussion, or a combination thereof and the speaker volume may be less than 80 decibels. The light may illuminate a surface comprising a ceiling, wall, screen, drape, curtain, partition, floor, door, or glass. The controller may include a mobile phone, computer, mp3 player, or automated metronome. The controller may control light intensity, light speed, audio settings, or a combination thereof. Some embodiments may include a remote control to control light intensity, light speed, audio settings, or a combination thereof.

Description

[0001] EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING DEVICE AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

[0002] Priority Claim

[0003]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to United States Provisional Patent Application 63 / 710,204 with the same title and inventor filed on October 20, 2024. The application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0004] Field

[0005]

[0002] Embodiments herein relate to devices and methods for participating in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) including a portable, programable, rhythmic light source that forms a controlled pattern of light with tailored movement across a surface.

[0006] Background

[0007]

[0003] Focusing on rhythmic, intentionally spaced light across a planer surface is a component of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) that provides emotional relief for people afflicted with post-traumatic stress disorder and other psychiatric distress or illness. Light bars, computer and television screens, and other large, bulky electronic surfaces may be used to light up in blinking geometric configurations to provide an effective experience for a user. These bulky devices require a flat or similar diode-based screen, small amounts of electricity, fixed, continuous deployment in one place in a clinical or home setting, and allow for very little variety in light spacing, duration, speed, or intensity. They rely on a continuous feed from an online or recorded service for execution, such as a YouTube™ film.

[0008] Summary

[0009]

[0004] This summary is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.73, requiring a summary of the invention briefly indicating the nature and substance of the invention. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

[0010]

[0005] Embodiments herein relate to an apparatus, composition, methods, and a device for delivering a rhythmic light pattern to a surface including a housing, a laser source for delivering light in a controlled direction and rhythm, a port to communicate with a controller, and a base to support the housing. Some embodiments include a speaker. The speaker and laser source may have coordinated direction and rhythm. The speaker may play human speech, music, percussion, or a combination thereof and the speaker volume may be less than 80 decibels. In some embodiments, the light is in the visible spectrum. The light may be delivered for 30 minutes or less. In some embodiments, the controlled direction has endpoints that do not require peripheral human vision. In some embodiments, the light illuminates a surface comprising a ceiling, wall, screen, drape, curtain, partition, floor, door, or glass.

[0011]

[0006] The housing may have dimensions of 3 cm by 50 cm by 100 cm or smaller. In some embodiments, the base is stable when resting on a wood surface, a fabric surface, an upholstery surface, or a combination thereof.

[0012]

[0007] The controller may include a mobile phone, computer, mp3 player, or automated metronome. The controller may control light intensity, light speed, audio settings, or a combination thereof. Some embodiments may further include a remote control. The remote control may control light intensity, light speed, audio settings, or a combination thereof.

[0013] Figures

[0014]

[0008] Aspects, features, benefits and advantages of the embodiments described herein will be apparent with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0015]

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a device positioned next to a thumb drive on a bedside table.

[0016]

[0010] Figure 2 is a schematic view of a cross section of a human head, a device, a flat surface, and sound and light travel paths.

[0017] Detailed Description

[0018]

[0011] This disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices and methods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular versions or embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope.

[0019]

[0012] As used in this document, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. As used in this document, the term “comprising” means “including, but not limited to.”

[0020]

[0013] Embodiments herein provide a compact, USB-powered EMDR therapy device designed to assist individuals in managing and alleviating trauma symptoms while lying in bed or in another comfortable position. This device combines advanced LED or laser technology with integrated audio capabilities to create a soothing and effective therapeutic experience, all in a sleek, portable design. Embodiments herein rely on a laser-based device that directs light to any nearby surface at an angle, speed, and intensity appropriate for a given user’s needs. The light is projected onto a nearby wall, ceiling, or screen, whatever is convenient for the user in a relaxed body position. The device is controlled by a connected computer laptop, mobile phone, or other small device that sets the control parameters for light display. The light intensity, movement, and brightness parameters may be tailored for the projection surface at hand and coordinated with music or established to augment spoken word such as a guided meditation, lecture, or audio book.

[0021]

[0014] Some embodiments may benefit from a pre-programed regime. Some embodiments may offer the user several pre-set control regimes to choose from. That is, users may choose from pre-set light patterns and speeds or create their own custom sessions. Pre-programmed modes include options for relaxation or deeper EMDR engagement. In some embodiments, a simple touch-sensitive control panel allows users to easily adjust light patterns, brightness, and audio settings. In some embodiments, the device controls are configured for ease of use, especially during nighttime routines.

[0022]

[0015] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a light emitting device 101. The dimensions of the device 101 need to be consistent with an iPhone™ or travel alarm clock such as 3 cm by 50 cm by 100 cm or smaller, just large enough that the housing 102 effectively contains the light source 103, space for the light beam 108 to exit the device 104, controller (not shown), power source or battery (not shown), and the communications port 105 to engage with a laptop, phone, or other controlling device. The device 101 may include an AAA battery or be USB-powered, allowing for easy connection to any power source via a cable 106, such as a phone charger or power bank, making it versatile and convenient for use at home or while traveling. In some embodiments, a small, user-friendly remote control (not shown) allows users to adjust settings without leaving the bed or other relaxing surface, that is, effortlessly, the controller comprises a mobile phone, computer, mp3 player, or automated metronome. Settings that may be adjusted include light intensity, speed, audio settings, or a combination thereof. Some embodiments may include a built-in sleep timer that ensures the device powers off after the session, allowing users to drift off to sleep without worry. Figure 1 includes a thumb drive 107 for scale and to illustrate that the device may use any type of electronic instructions for appropriate EMDR therapy.

[0016] The housing needs to be elegant and stable for user ease. Some embodiments may benefit from having a speaker built into the housing to coordinate and provide music or spoken word with the light. Some embodiments may connect to wireless earbuds. It may play EMDR therapy audios or syncs with external devices for personalized audio experiences, including, but not limited to a Bluetooth audio connection. A user’s selection of the audio may be driven by his goals such as relaxation or motivation. The speaker may provide a sound volume of 80 decibels or less.

[0023]

[0017] Embodiments herein project a single light pattern onto the ceiling that moves smoothly from left to right and back or that flashes only at the furthest left and right surfaces in a user’s line of vision, creating a calming visual experience that enhances EMDR therapy. The light is a wavelength in the visible spectrum. The light may illuminate a surface comprising a ceiling, wall, screen, drape, curtain, partition, floor, door, glass, or a combination thereof.

[0024]

[0018] The advantages of the device include transport ease, lower power consumption, more varied surfaces for deployment, less surface area needed to set up the system, etc. The device’s small, lightweight design makes it easy to set up anywhere, whether on a nightstand, other furniture, the floor, or directly on a bed aimed toward the wall or ceiling. Its portability ensures that therapeutic support is available wherever it is needed. That is, the entire regime could be configured from a bedside table for projection onto a wall surface instead of a large screen TV connected to a laptop.

[0025]

[0019] A workflow for an embodiment of the system follows.

[0026] —Place the device on your nightstand or bedside within your line of sight.

[0027] —Adjust the LED or laser light to your preferred angle and intensity. —Select your desired program or create a custom session.

[0028] —Lie down comfortably in bed, focus on the gentle sweeping lights on your ceiling or wall, and allow yourself to relax as the therapy session begins and engages with you over time.

[0029]

[0020] Figure 2 provides a schematic view of a cross section of a human head 200, a device 201 resting on a base 223 such as a floor, side table, bed, couch, or other furniture, a flat surface 203, and sound and light travel paths 204, 205, 208, 209. The head 200 includes eyes 210, 212 and ears 211, 213. In some embodiments, the base is stable when resting on a wood surface, a fabric surface, an upholstery surface, or a combination thereof. The head 200 protects left and right brain sections 214, 215. Angle 216 between the user’s line of vision helps set the distance 222 between the surface regions 220, 221 where the light travel path 204, 205 encounters flat surface 203 to a distance that falls within the user’s central vision, not his peripheral vision. Bilateral stimulation of the brain 200 may occur as the light is shined in a rhythmic pattern at regions 220, 221. That is, when the left side 214 is engaged when the right eye 212 is focused on the light 207 at its right region 221 on the target surface 203 and when the right side 215 of a user’s brain 200 is engaged when the left eye 210 is focused on the light 206 at its left region 220 on the target surface 203, the combined activity may engage the brain 200 in a harmonious response.

[0030]

[0021] Likewise, the audio portion of the system from device 201 or other sound source such as headphones, earbuds, speakers, or a combination thereof (not shown) may be similarly timed to engage the right and left ears 211, 213. This sound may act in time coordination with the light 206, 207. In some embodiments, the speaker and laser source have coordinated direction and rhythm. In some embodiments, the speaker plays human speech, music, percussion, or a combination thereof. This may further stimulate brain regions 214, 215.

[0031]

[0022] Using the system may include allowing the user’s eyes to follow the blinking lights while listening to a video or MP3, relaxing, drifting into trance, letting the affirmations sink in, or a combination thereof. Some users may benefit from a total session time of 30 to 60 minutes and a frequency of 2 to 4 nights per week. In some embodiments, the light is delivered for 30 minutes or less.

[0032]

[0023] This visual and audio rhythmically controlled stimulus may further engage additional regions of the brain so that the brain experiences a coordinated, engaged, and less anxious state. Neural processes may be enhanced. The benefit to the user may include relaxation generally. Some users may feel that their memories as they are processed in such a state are “refiled,” or “addressed,” in such a way to help with emotional reprocessing, to lower the negative effects of harmful memories, to expand cognition, or a combination thereof.

[0033]

[0024] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds, compositions or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0034]

[0025] With respect to the use of substantially any plural or singular terms herein, one may translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context or application. The various singular and plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[0035]

[0026] In general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (for example, bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (for example, the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” et cetera). If a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present.

[0036]

[0027] For any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, et cetera. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, et cetera. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as “up to,” “at least,” and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges that can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 devices refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 devices. Similarly, a group having 1-5 devices refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 devices, and so forth.

[0037]

[0028] Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made, each of which is also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

Claims

I claim:

1. A device for delivering a rhythmic light pattern to a surface, comprising:a housing;a laser source for delivering light in a controlled direction and rhythm;a port to communicate with a controller; anda base to support the housing.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a speaker.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the speaker and laser source have coordinated direction and rhythm.

4. The device of claim 2, wherein the speaker plays human speech, music, percussion, or a combination thereof.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the speaker volume is less than 80 decibels.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing is 3 cm by 50 cm by 100 cm or smaller.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the base is stable when resting on a wood surface, a fabric surface, an upholstery surface, or a combination thereof.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the light is in the visible spectrum.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the controlled direction has endpoints that do not require peripheral human vision.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the controller comprises a mobile phone, computer, mp3 player, or automated metronome.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the controller controls light intensity, light speed, audio settings, or a combination thereof.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the light illuminates a surface comprising a ceiling, wall, screen, drape, curtain, partition, floor, door, or glass.

13. The device of claim 1, further comprising a remote control.

14. The device of claim 14, wherein the remote control controls light intensity, light speed, audio settings, or a combination thereof.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein the light is delivered for 30 minutes or less.

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